Can a Doctor reject my request for a Tele-consult & MC? A guide to MCs in Singapore 2024

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What conditions are not suitable for Teleconsult?

Digital Health Clinic

20 May 2024

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Can a Doctor reject my request for a Tele-consult?

5 min read | calm-down

Short-answer: Yes

In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, teleconsultation has emerged as a convenient and accessible option for patients seeking medical advice without the need for in-person visits. With just a few clicks, individuals can connect with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes, saving time and reducing the hassle associated with traditional doctor's appointments. However, despite its convenience, some patients may wonder: Can a doctor reject my request for a tele-consult? The short answer is yes, but let's delve deeper into the reasons why and the circumstances under which a doctor might decline a teleconsultation request.

Clinical Appropriateness

One of the primary reasons a doctor may refuse a tele-consultation is if they believe that the nature of the medical issue requires an in-person examination. Certain conditions, such as severe injuries, acute chest pain, or symptoms that necessitate a physical examination, may not be suitable for remote evaluation. In such cases, the doctor's priority is ensuring the patient receives the appropriate level of care, which may require an in-person visit to accurately diagnose and treat the condition.

Video consultation may NOT suitable for patients with concerning symptoms such as (non-exhaustive list):

  • Chest Pain or Palpitations
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Severe or Persistent Abdominal Pain
  • Frank blood in urine
  • Black sticky stools (Malena)
  • Active Bleeding: vomitus, cough or wounds
  • Numbness or weakness in limbs or face
  • Pregnancy-related complications
  • Hearing loss
  • Visual disturbances
  • High fever (>38.5 deg) more than 3 days

Technological Limitations

Teleconsultation relies on technology, including stable internet connections and compatible devices, to facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers. If a patient lacks access to the necessary technology or if there are connectivity issues that impede the quality of the consultation, a doctor may opt to decline the teleconsultation request to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the interaction.

Legal and Regulatory Constraints

Healthcare regulations and licensing requirements vary from region to region, and some jurisdictions may impose limitations on the practice of telemedicine. Doctors are obligated to adhere to these regulations to ensure compliance with professional standards and avoid potential legal repercussions. Therefore, if providing teleconsultation services is not permitted or feasible due to regulatory constraints, a doctor may be compelled to reject a patient's request for a tele-consult.

Patient Safety Concerns

In certain situations, a doctor may have concerns about the patient's safety or well-being that cannot be adequately addressed through teleconsultation alone. For example, if there are indications of a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention, the doctor may advise the patient to seek care at an emergency department or schedule an urgent in-person visit to ensure timely intervention and management.

Scope of practice

Doctors have different areas of expertise and may feel that they are not sufficiently qualified or equipped to address certain medical issues through teleconsultation. In such cases, they may recommend seeking care from a specialist or healthcare provider who has the necessary skills and resources to manage the patient's condition effectively.

Conclusion: We won't charge if so...

While it is within a doctor's discretion to reject a request for a tele-consult, it is essential to understand that their decision is rooted in considerations of patient safety, clinical appropriateness, and regulatory compliance. Patients should communicate openly with their healthcare providers about their preferences and concerns regarding teleconsultation, and together, they can determine the most suitable course of action for addressing their medical needs. Ultimately, the goal of tele-consultation is to enhance access to healthcare services while ensuring the delivery of safe, effective, and patient-centered care.

Finally, don't worry! We do not charge anything if Doctor deems during the video consultation that tele-consultation is unsuitable and advises not the proceed.

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